Test your knowledge of authentic Irish expressions and phrases!
Question 1 of 10
What does “craic” mean?
A) A type of Irish bread
B) Fun, entertainment, or good times
C) A traditional Irish dance
D) Bad weather
“Craic” (pronounced “crack”) is one of the most famous Irish words, meaning fun, entertainment, or good times. You might hear “What’s the craic?” as a greeting meaning “What’s happening?” or “How are things?”
Question 2 of 10
If something is “banjaxed”, what condition is it in?
A) Brand new
B) Expensive
C) Broken or ruined
D) Lost
“Banjaxed” means completely broken, ruined, or out of order. If your car won’t start, you might say it’s “totally banjaxed!”
Question 3 of 10
What does “grand” typically mean in Irish context?
A) Fine, okay, or satisfactory
B) Very expensive
C) Large in size
D) Formal or fancy
In Ireland, “grand” usually means fine, okay, or satisfactory. It’s a wonderfully versatile word – “How are you?” “Ah, I’m grand!” means everything is fine.
Question 4 of 10
If someone calls you a “eejit”, what are they saying?
A) You’re very smart
B) You’re from Ireland
C) You’re an idiot (but often said affectionately)
D) You’re very tall
“Eejit” is the Irish pronunciation of “idiot,” but it’s often used affectionately among friends. It can range from playful teasing to mild criticism.
Question 5 of 10
What does “shifting” mean in Irish slang?
A) Moving house
B) Working hard
C) Changing your mind
D) Kissing someone
“Shifting” in Irish slang means kissing someone, usually used by teenagers and young adults. “Did you shift anyone at the disco?”
Question 6 of 10
If you’re going to have a “session”, what are you planning?
A) A business meeting
B) A study period
C) A nap
D) A drinking session or party
A “session” in Irish context usually refers to a drinking session or party, often involving music and socializing. Traditional music sessions in pubs are also very popular!
Question 7 of 10
What does “sound” mean when describing a person?
A) They’re very loud
B) They’re a good, reliable person
C) They’re musical
D) They’re healthy
When you say someone is “sound,” you mean they’re a good, reliable, trustworthy person. “He’s a sound lad” is high praise in Ireland!
Question 8 of 10
If you’re “scarlet”, how are you feeling?
A) Angry
B) Cold
C) Embarrassed
D) Happy
“Scarlet” means embarrassed or mortified. “I was scarlet when I tripped in front of everyone!” It refers to going red in the face from embarrassment.
Question 9 of 10
What does “gawk” mean?
A) To stare at something
B) To walk quickly
C) To laugh loudly
D) To eat messily
“Gawk” means to stare at something, often in an obvious or rude way. “Stop gawking at that poor person!” It can also mean to look around curiously.
Question 10 of 10
If something is “deadly” in Irish slang, what does that mean?
A) Dangerous
B) Really boring
C) Excellent or brilliant
D) Very expensive
“Deadly” in Irish slang means excellent, brilliant, or really good. “That concert was deadly!” means it was fantastic. It’s the opposite of its literal meaning!
0/10
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Cath is an Irish expat and the founder of Travel Around Ireland. She and her husband both come from Dublin, where the rest of their family remains. They regularly return to the Emerald Isle to explore the country with their son as well as to visit family. Through Travel Around Ireland, Cath shares her local expertise and knowledge with travellers and visitors to Ireland. Find out more about Cath here.
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